The Last Case of Benedict Fox cover image

Links

Steam

Epic

Twitch

CRITIK

The Last Case of Benedict Fox

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Last Case of Benedict Fox
Item: The Last Case of Benedict Fox
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Single Player

AvailableApr 27, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperPlot Twist

Overview

Take on the last case of Benedict Fox and dive into a twisted world of secret organizations, forbidden rituals, and cold-blooded murders. Explore the memories of deceased victims as you search for clues and fight demons in this fantastical Lovecraftian Metroidvania.

Elsewhere

6.5

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Story of The Last Case of Benedict Fox has garnered praise for its intriguing Lovecraftian setting, engaging investigative sections, and complex narrative filled with secret organizations and forbidden rituals. Critics like Everyeye.it, GamingBolt, and Xbox Tavern appreciate the mysterious and twisted trail of the story, with GamingTrend highlighting the engaging twists and shocking moments that kept them intrigued. The narrative's exploration of dark themes, supernatural elements, and interconnected narratives has been commended by reviewers such as Generación Xbox and MondoXbox, adding depth to the overall storytelling experience. On the flip side, some critics found issues with the story's execution and pacing. GameGrin felt that the promising start of the narrative didn't pay off satisfactorily in the end, while GamesRadar++ and PC Gamer criticized the lack of direction and coherence in the plot. IGN France and PLAY! Zine highlighted problems with the storytelling fluidity and explanation, leading to confusion and inconsistency in the overall narrative experience. Additionally, SpazioGames pointed out shortcomings in the story's structure, including a rushed prologue, unsatisfying ending, and only decent execution of plot twists, which detracted from the overall impact of the narrative. Overall, the opinions on The Last Case of Benedict Fox's story are mixed, with a significant number of critics appreciating its intriguing premise, dark themes, and engaging twists. While some reviewers found issues with the execution, pacing, and coherence of the narrative, there is a consensus that the game offers a unique and suspenseful storyline that delves into complex themes of family disintegration, secret organizations, and hidden motives. The game manages to captivate players with its Lovecraftian elements and mysterious world, although improvements in storytelling structure and plot development could enhance the overall narrative experience for a more cohesive and satisfying journey.

TL;DR

story and narrative

The Last Case of Benedict Fox receives mixed reviews for its Lovecraftian setting, engaging investigative gameplay, and complex narrative weaving secret organizations and forbidden rituals. Critics praise its intriguing premise and dark themes but criticize issues with execution, pacing, and coherence. While some find the twists and supernatural elements captivating, others highlight problems with storytelling fluidity and plot structure. Overall, the game offers a unique and suspenseful storyline that could benefit from improvements in narrative development for a more cohesive experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

23%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of "The Last Case of Benedict Fox" received mixed reviews from critics. Some positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include engaging puzzles and exploration elements. GameSpot appreciated the engaging puzzles and environmental exploration, while Gamer.no found the challenging gameplay with puzzles and unlocking doors to be a positive aspect. Additionally, XboxEra praised the mix of Metroidvania gameplay with detective elements, offering a unique experience with combat and puzzle-solving elements. On the negative side, several critics criticized the combat mechanics and platforming controls of the game. Everyeye.it and GameMAG both pointed out issues with combat mechanics, with GameMAG specifically mentioning tedious battles, clunky controls, and repetitive combat. SpazioGames highlighted imprecisions in gameplay mechanics, such as hitbox and input problems, leading to frustrating experiences. Furthermore, IGN and PC Gamer criticized the combat and platforming mechanics for being flawed, unrefined, and frustrating, with sluggish controls and unresponsive inputs. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed reception of the gameplay in "The Last Case of Benedict Fox." While some reviewers appreciated the engaging puzzles, exploration, and unique elements like detective gameplay, others found issues with combat mechanics, platforming controls, and overall gameplay refinement. IGN France noted the game's metroidvania-style progression system but highlighted shortcomings in combat animations and enemy attacks. The general sentiment suggests that while the game offers some interesting gameplay elements, it falls short in terms of execution and polish, leading to a divisive reception among critics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics had mixed feelings about "The Last Case of Benedict Fox" gameplay. Positives included engaging puzzles and exploration, blending Metroidvania with detective elements. However, criticisms focused on flawed combat mechanics, platform controls, and frustrating gameplay experiences. Reviewers highlighted both pros and cons, leading to a divisive reception among critics.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

60%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The Graphics and Visual Design of The Last Case of Benedict Fox have received a mix of positive feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the game's art direction, atmospheric visuals, and unique style. BaziCenter commended the exceptional art design and technical performance, highlighting the diverse environments that each possess their own atmosphere and visual flair. GameSpot also lauded the unsettling and beautifully horrifying graphics, effectively capturing the Lovecraftian-inspired world. Additionally, GamingTrend praised the aesthetics of the game, including the music, creepy characters, and overall atmosphere, as highly praiseworthy. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the game's visual presentation. SpazioGames criticized the technical aspects, mentioning issues like polygonal modeling, monster design, clipping, bugs, and glitches. PC Gamer noted that while the visuals initially impress with their twisted beauty, they fail to create a distinct sense of place, especially with the design of monsters lacking terror and imagination. Furthermore, PLAY! Zine highlighted inconsistent enemy designs as a drawback in an otherwise generally good world and game design. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of The Last Case of Benedict Fox. The game's captivating art direction, unique style, and atmospheric visuals were widely appreciated by reviewers such as Everyeye.it, GameMAG, and IGN Italia. While there were some criticisms regarding technical issues and design inconsistencies from critics like SpazioGames and PLAY! Zine, the majority of opinions praised the game's ability to immerse players in a Lovecraftian world filled with eerie and captivating visuals. The overall sentiment suggests that The Last Case of Benedict Fox successfully delivers a visually engaging experience that enhances its atmospheric setting and storytelling, making it a noteworthy title in terms of graphics and art design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the graphics and visual design of The Last Case of Benedict Fox. While praised for its art direction and unique style, some critics found shortcomings like technical issues and inconsistent designs. Overall, most reviewers appreciated the captivating visuals that effectively immerse players in a Lovecraftian world, making it a noteworthy title in terms of graphics and art design.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of The Last Case of Benedict Fox have received generally positive feedback from the critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its atmospheric audio elements, with GamingTrend mentioning the fun music, including records to find and a piano puzzle, and Movies Games and Tech highlighting the era-specific music, excellent acting, and brilliant sound effects that contributed to the sinister interactions with the demonic friend. The Games Machine and Generación Xbox also commended the well-managed sound design and soundtrack that enhanced the overall experience. TrueGaming specifically pointed out the memorable and atmospheric music that alternated between calm and thrilling tones, maintaining the mysterious and dark atmosphere of the game. On the negative side, there were some mixed opinions regarding the voice acting. While Everyeye.it, TheXboxHub, and SECTOR.sk praised the English voice acting, particularly the performance of the Companion character, Checkpoint Gaming found it to be bland and felt that it ruined the dramatic tension. PLAY! Zine also noted inconsistency in the voice acting quality, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, GameGrin mentioned that the soundtrack in the Limbo worlds was average, not standing out compared to other elements of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side when it comes to the Sound Design and Music of The Last Case of Benedict Fox. The eerie soundtrack, excellent voice acting, atmospheric effects, and jazz-inspired sounds were highlighted as strong points by reviewers like God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it. While there were some criticisms regarding the voice acting quality and certain aspects of the music, the majority of critics appreciated how the sound design and music contributed to the immersive and dark world of the game. The overall sentiment suggests that the audio elements of the game successfully enhanced the player's experience and added depth to the mysterious narrative of The Last Case of Benedict Fox.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics laud the atmospheric audio in The Last Case of Benedict Fox, praising its eerie sound design, jazz-inspired music, and excellent voice acting. While some found the voice acting inconsistent and the Limbo world soundtrack average, overall, reviewers agree that the sound design and music greatly enhance the game's immersive and dark world.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

22%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Last Case of Benedict Fox has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the English voice acting, with Everyeye.it commending the chilling performance of the mysterious Companion character and TheXboxHub highlighting the top-notch voice acting overall, particularly praising the Companion's voice. IGN Italia also specifically mentioned the well-done voice acting for the demonic entity. These positive comments indicate a strong vocal performance that effectively brings the characters to life and enhances the immersive experience of the game. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about the voice acting in The Last Case of Benedict Fox. Checkpoint Gaming found the voice acting to be bland, which they felt detracted from the dramatic tension of the narrative. PLAY! Zine noted inconsistency in the voice acting, particularly pointing out the protagonist's actor sounding inexperienced. Multiplayer.it also mentioned that while the English voice acting was generally good, there were instances of inconsistent quality among the characters. These criticisms suggest that there may have been issues with the overall consistency and delivery of the voice performances in the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in The Last Case of Benedict Fox leans towards the positive side, with several reviewers praising the quality of the English voice acting and the performances of specific characters. SECTOR.sk's positive remarks about the game having excellent voice acting, well-written dialogue, and visually appealing scenes further support the notion that the voice acting contributed positively to the overall experience. However, the mixed opinions from critics like Checkpoint Gaming, PLAY! Zine, and Multiplayer.it indicate that there were some shortcomings in terms of consistency and delivery that affected the immersion and impact of the voice acting. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers appreciated the efforts put into the voice performances, ultimately making it a notable aspect of the game for many players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in The Last Case of Benedict Fox. While some praised the English voice acting and specific character performances, others found it bland and inconsistent. Overall, reviewers mostly appreciated the quality of the voice acting, though some noted issues with consistency and delivery. Despite some shortcomings, many players found the voice performances to enhance the immersive experience of the game.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

40%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of positives for the Xbox Series X version of The Last Case of Benedict Fox, some critics noted improvements after patches were released. For example, The Games Machine mentioned that the frame rate had been stabilized at 60 frames per second post-patch. MondoXbox also highlighted that the steady pace of the game made occasional frame-rate drops more tolerable. Additionally, GamingTrend pointed out that a bug encountered during their playthrough was quickly fixed by the developer with a patch for Xbox. On the flip side, the negatives for the Xbox Series X version were quite prominent. Multiple critics, such as Everyeye.it and Gamer.no, reported technical issues like delayed controls, freezing problems, and poor performance. Xbox Tavern even experienced a bug that halted their progress at the end of the game. XboxEra and MondoXbox also mentioned bugs and performance drops, with the latter specifically noting frame-rate issues during abrupt movements. Overall, technical issues seemed to plague the Xbox Series X version of the game, impacting the gameplay experience for many reviewers. Across all platforms, the consensus among critics was that The Last Case of Benedict Fox suffered from significant technical issues that hindered the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics playing on PC, such as IGN France and Multiplayer.it, highlighted bugs, freezes, and performance drops as major drawbacks. The PC version was criticized for long loading times, frame rate drops, and other technical limitations by reviewers like Games.cz and SECTOR.sk. SpazioGames summed up the sentiment by mentioning numerous flaws and technical issues, including imprecise gameplay, bugs, glitches, and input problems. Despite some improvements post-patch on Xbox Series X, the overall sentiment was that technical performance issues were prevalent across all platforms, impacting the gameplay experience negatively.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praised post-patch improvements like stable frame rates on Xbox Series X for The Last Case of Benedict Fox, but technical issues like delayed controls and bugs overshadowed the gameplay experience on all platforms, leading to a consensus that the game was hindered by significant technical problems.

Replay Value

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

replay value

Description unavailable

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The Last Case of Benedict Fox has garnered praise for its intriguing story, captivating setting, and potential to appeal to a wider audience within the metroidvania genre. Critics like Generación Xbox and Movies Games and Tech commend the game for offering a lot of exploration, challenging puzzles, fantastic storytelling, captivating visuals, and addictive gameplay. The immersive experience, engaging puzzles, and beautiful environments highlighted by MondoXbox further contribute to the positive aspects of the game. Despite its flaws, GamingTrend finds the game recommended for fans of puzzle games, platformers, and lore, emphasizing its challenging and fun nature. On the downside, The Last Case of Benedict Fox has faced criticism for technical issues, gameplay flaws, frustrating controls, lack of enemy variety, and unsatisfying combat mechanics. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming, GameGrin, and GamesRadar++ point out the clunky controls, repetitive gameplay, disappointing combat system, and struggles to match the vision of the genre, leading to a disappointing overall experience. PC Gamer and PLAY! Zine express their disappointment with the game's awkward and inconsistent nature, lack of satisfying gameplay, and storytelling that falls short of expectations. Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding The Last Case of Benedict Fox are mixed. While some reviewers appreciate its potential, engaging aspects, and captivating atmosphere, others highlight the technical flaws, underwhelming gameplay, and lack of polish. The game seems to have polarized opinions, with some like IGN Italia and Gamer.no acknowledging its magical yet flawed nature, while others like SECTOR.sk and SpazioGames find it lacking in gameplay refinement and precision. The general consensus suggests that The Last Case of Benedict Fox offers a unique experience with strengths in storytelling and visuals but falls short in execution and gameplay mechanics, making it a title that may resonate more with fans of the metroidvania genre and those who enjoy deep storytelling and exploration.

TL;DR

The Last Case of Benedict Fox earns praise for its intriguing story and captivating setting in the metroidvania genre, offering exploration, challenging puzzles, and addictive gameplay. Critics highlight its immersive experience, engaging puzzles, and beautiful environments. However, the game faces criticism for technical issues, gameplay flaws, and unsatisfying combat mechanics. Reviews are mixed, with some appreciating its potential while others point out its shortcomings in execution and gameplay mechanics. Overall, it's a unique experience with strengths in storytelling and visuals, but falls short in some areas, appealing more to fans of the genre and deep storytelling.

CRITIK

Reviews

62 reviews found

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A challenging and involving game with great aesthetics.

Read full review

GamingTrend

Xbox Series X

May 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox is recommended for fans of puzzle games, platformers, and lore. The reviewer found it challenging and fun, despite moments of feeling directionless.

Read full review

Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

May 23, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox lives up to the hype with a fantastic story, captivating visuals, atmospheric audio, and addictive gameplay. It is recommended.

Read full review

MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

May 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game offers an engaging and immersive experience, but falls short in delivering a truly impactful emotional connection. Recommended for players who appreciate beautiful environments and enjoy puzzle-solving.

Read full review

GamingBolt

Xbox Series X

May 3, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Engrossing and intriguing, despite flaws in combat mechanics.

Read full review

BaziCenter

Xbox Series X

Jun 14, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox may not be groundbreaking, but it has the potential to appeal to a wider audience and showcase the possibilities of the metroidvania genre in the future.

Read full review

The Games Machine

Xbox Series X

May 10, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox is an interesting and engaging game with a captivating story, well-designed puzzles, and impressive art direction. However, it could have taken more risks and the combat system lacks polish. Recommended for genre lovers and those who enjoy experimentation.

Read full review

COGconnected

May 9, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox has an intriguing narrative and excellent puzzles, but is let down by frustrating controls and lack of enemy variety.

Read full review

Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

May 9, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Last Case of Benedict Fox is a worthwhile metroidvania game, especially for fans of the genre. It offers a lot of exploration and challenging puzzles.

Read full review

God is a Geek

May 3, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Plot Twist has delivered an engaging adventure that draws you in from the start.

Read full review